Air Fryer French Toast Recipe

I used to think French toast was strictly a weekend project, something that required standing over a hot skillet for what felt like hours while everyone waited impatiently at the breakfast table. Then I discovered the air fryer method, and everything changed.

This Air Fryer French Toast Recipe delivers perfectly crispy edges and a custardy center in just minutes, without the mess and constant supervision of traditional stovetop cooking. No more soggy bottoms or burnt corners.

The first time I made Air Fryer French Toast, I was skeptical. How could hot air possibly create that golden, caramelized exterior I loved? But after one bite, I was completely sold. The texture was somehow even better than pan-fried, with an incredibly crisp crust that gave way to soft, eggy goodness inside.

Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	8 minutes
Total Time	18 minutes
Servings	4 slices
Difficulty Level	Easy

If you’re looking for more breakfast inspiration, you’ll love my Pumpkin French Toast Recipe for a seasonal twist.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer French Toast Recipe

The air fryer transforms ordinary French toast into something extraordinary. The circulating hot air creates an incredibly crispy exterior that’s nearly impossible to achieve in a pan without using excessive butter.

You can cook multiple slices at once without crowding or constantly flipping. This means everyone gets to eat together instead of waiting for batch after batch to finish.

Here’s what makes this recipe special:

• Perfectly crispy texture: The air fryer creates a golden crust that stays crispy, never soggy
• Hands-off cooking: No standing over the stove or worrying about burning
• Healthier option: Uses minimal oil compared to traditional pan-frying
• Consistent results: Every slice cooks evenly with the same beautiful color
• Quick cleanup: No greasy skillets to scrub
• Batch cooking friendly: Make several slices at once for the whole family

Another breakfast favorite worth trying is my Belgian Waffle Recipe.

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple pantry staples to create restaurant-quality French toast right at home. The key is using thick-cut bread that can absorb the custard without falling apart.

• 4 slices thick-cut bread (brioche, challah, or Texas toast, about 1 inch/2.5 cm thick)
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk or half-and-half
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• Cooking spray or melted butter for the air fryer basket

Optional Toppings:

• Maple syrup
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh berries
• Whipped cream
• Sliced bananas
• Butter

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Having the right tools makes this recipe even easier to execute. You likely already have most of these items in your kitchen.

• Air fryer (4-quart or larger capacity recommended)
• Shallow bowl or pie dish for the egg mixture
• Whisk or fork
• Pastry brush (for applying butter or oil)
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen timer

You might also enjoy my Air Fryer Pancake Recipe using similar equipment.

Recommended Products for This Recipe

After making Air Fryer French Toast countless times, these are the products that consistently deliver the best results.

1. Thick-Cut Brioche Bread

The quality of your bread makes all the difference in French toast. I always reach for thick-cut brioche because its rich, buttery flavor and sturdy texture hold up beautifully to the egg custard without becoming mushy. Regular sandwich bread simply can’t compete with the luxurious results you get from brioche.

Get it on Amazon

2. Pure Vanilla Extract

Never underestimate the power of quality vanilla extract. I learned this the hard way after using imitation vanilla once and wondering why my French toast tasted flat. Real vanilla extract adds a depth of flavor and subtle sweetness that makes every bite special.

Get it on Amazon

3. Digital Air Fryer with Temperature Control

Not all air fryers are created equal, and having precise temperature control is crucial for achieving that perfect golden exterior without overcooking the inside. I upgraded to a digital model with adjustable temperature settings, and it completely eliminated the guesswork from my cooking.

Get it on Amazon

4. Pure Maple Syrup

Once you’ve gone through the effort of making perfect Air Fryer French Toast, don’t top it with pancake syrup. Pure maple syrup has a complex, natural sweetness that complements the custard-soaked bread without overpowering it. It’s the finishing touch that takes this breakfast from good to unforgettable.

Get it on Amazon

For a savory breakfast option, try my Air Fryer Bikini Ham Cheese Sandwich Recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Air Fryer French Toast

Follow these detailed steps for foolproof French toast every single time. I’ve included all the little tips I’ve learned through trial and error.

1. Prepare the Custard Mixture

• Crack the 3 eggs into a shallow bowl or pie dish
• Add the ½ cup (120 ml) milk, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) heavy cream, 2 tablespoons (25 g) sugar, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) nutmeg, and a pinch of salt
• Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until everything is completely combined and slightly frothy
• The mixture should be smooth with no streaks of egg white visible
• Set the custard mixture aside while you prepare the air fryer

2. Preheat the Air Fryer

• Set your air fryer to 370°F (188°C)
• Allow it to preheat for 3 to 5 minutes
• This step is crucial for achieving even browning and that signature crispy texture
• While the air fryer preheats, you can prepare your bread

3. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with melted butter
• Make sure to coat the entire bottom surface where the bread will sit
• This prevents sticking and adds extra flavor and crispiness to the bottom of the French toast
• Don’t skip this step or your bread might stick to the basket

4. Dip the Bread Slices

• Take one slice of thick-cut bread and place it in the custard mixture
• Let it soak for 15 to 20 seconds on the first side
• Flip the bread over using tongs or your hands and soak the other side for another 15 to 20 seconds
• The bread should be thoroughly soaked but not falling apart
• Gently lift the bread and let any excess custard drip back into the bowl
• If using very dense bread like challah, you may need to soak it a bit longer (up to 30 seconds per side)
• Repeat this process with the remaining slices

5. Arrange in the Air Fryer

• Carefully place the soaked bread slices in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket
• Leave about ½ inch (1.25 cm) of space between each slice for proper air circulation
• Don’t overcrowd the basket or the French toast won’t cook evenly
• Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches
• Lightly spray the tops of the bread slices with cooking spray or brush with melted butter for extra crispiness

6. Air Fry the First Side

• Cook at 370°F (188°C) for 4 minutes without opening the air fryer
• You should start to smell the wonderful aroma of cinnamon and vanilla
• The edges should begin to turn golden brown

7. Flip and Continue Cooking

• Carefully open the air fryer basket after 4 minutes
• Use tongs or a spatula to gently flip each slice of French toast
• The cooked side should be golden brown with crispy edges
• Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes on the second side
• Check at the 3-minute mark to prevent overcooking
• The French toast is done when both sides are golden brown and crispy, and the center feels set when gently pressed

8. Check for Doneness

• The French toast should be golden brown on both sides with slightly darker, caramelized edges
• The center should be cooked through but still soft and custardy
• If needed, cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, checking frequently
• Remember that the French toast will continue to firm up slightly as it cools

9. Serve Immediately

• Remove the Air Fryer French Toast from the basket and place on serving plates
• Dust with powdered sugar if desired
• Drizzle generously with maple syrup
• Add your favorite toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, or sliced bananas
• Serve hot for the best texture and flavor

Read Also: Creme Brulee French Toast Recipe

Tips for The Best Air Fryer French Toast

These expert tips will help you avoid common mistakes and achieve bakery-quality results every time.

• Choose the right bread: Thick-cut bread (at least 1 inch/2.5 cm) works best because it absorbs the custard without becoming too soggy. Day-old bread is ideal because it’s slightly drier and soaks up the egg mixture perfectly without falling apart.
• Don’t over-soak: While you want the bread thoroughly coated, soaking too long will make it mushy and difficult to handle. Aim for 15 to 20 seconds per side for most breads.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Cold eggs and milk don’t mix as smoothly and can create an uneven custard. Let them sit out for 15 minutes before making the mixture.
• Preheat your air fryer: This ensures even cooking from the moment the bread goes in. Skipping this step often results in pale, undercooked centers.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Air needs to circulate freely around each slice for that signature crispy texture. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Adjust cooking time for thickness: Thicker slices need an extra 1 to 2 minutes of cooking time. Thinner slices might be done a minute earlier.
• Spray the tops: A light coating of cooking spray on top before air frying creates an extra-crispy surface that rivals restaurant-quality French toast.
• Watch the final minute: Air fryers can go from perfectly golden to overdone quickly. Check frequently during the last minute of cooking.
• Let custard drip off: Shake off excess custard before placing bread in the air fryer to prevent pooling at the bottom of the basket.
• Flip only once: Resist the urge to flip multiple times. One flip halfway through ensures even browning without tearing the bread.

For another easy air fryer breakfast, check out my Air Fryer Cheddar Hash Browns Recipe.

What to Serve with Air Fryer French Toast

Air Fryer French Toast pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory breakfast sides to create a complete morning meal.

Protein Options:

• Crispy bacon strips
• Breakfast sausage links or patties
• Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breasts
• Scrambled eggs with cheese
• Air Fryer Turkey Scotch Eggs

Fresh Fruits:

• Sliced strawberries or mixed berries
• Caramelized bananas
• Fresh fruit salad
• Grilled peaches
• Apple compote

Beverages:

• Fresh orange juice
• Coffee or espresso
• Hot Chocolate
• Milk or chocolate milk
• Fruit smoothies

You might also love my Breakfast Burrito Recipe for a heartier meal.

Variations of Air Fryer French Toast

Once you master the basic recipe, these creative variations will keep breakfast exciting for weeks.

• Stuffed French Toast: Spread cream cheese, Nutella, or peanut butter between two thin slices of bread, seal the edges, then dip and air fry as directed. Add an extra 2 minutes to the cooking time.
• Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Use cinnamon roll dough instead of bread. Flatten the dough slightly, dip in custard, and air fry at 350°F (177°C) for 6 to 8 minutes. Drizzle with icing when done.
• Savory French Toast: Omit the sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon from the custard. Add ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese instead. Serve with scrambled eggs and bacon.
• Berry-Stuffed French Toast: Make a pocket in thick bread slices and fill with fresh blueberries or strawberries mixed with a teaspoon of sugar. Dip and cook as directed, adding 1 to 2 minutes to cooking time.
• Pumpkin Spice French Toast: Add 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree and ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice to the custard mixture. This creates a seasonal twist perfect for fall mornings.
• Chocolate Chip French Toast: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on the bread after the first flip. The chips will melt slightly and create pockets of chocolate throughout.
• Coconut French Toast: Add ¼ cup shredded coconut to the custard and sprinkle more on top before air frying. Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for even more tropical flavor.
• Almond Joy French Toast: Mix 2 tablespoons cocoa powder into the custard, top with shredded coconut and slivered almonds before cooking.

For more breakfast variations, explore my Waffle Recipe collection.

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage keeps your Air Fryer French Toast fresh and delicious for quick breakfasts throughout the week.

Refrigerator Storage:

• Let the French toast cool completely to room temperature before storing
• Place slices in a single layer in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days
• French toast may lose some crispiness when refrigerated but will still taste delicious

Freezer Storage:

• Cool the French toast completely
• Arrange slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour until solid
• Transfer frozen slices to a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between layers
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months
• This flash-freezing method prevents the slices from sticking together

Reheating Instructions:

• Air fryer method (best for maintaining crispiness): Place refrigerated or frozen French toast in the air fryer at 350°F (177°C) for 2 to 3 minutes for refrigerated slices or 4 to 5 minutes for frozen slices
• Toaster method: Pop refrigerated slices in the toaster on medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed and crispy
• Microwave method (quickest but less crispy): Heat refrigerated slices for 20 to 30 seconds or frozen slices for 45 to 60 seconds on high power
• Oven method: Reheat at 350°F (177°C) for 5 to 7 minutes for refrigerated slices or 10 to 12 minutes for frozen slices

Pro tip: For the crispiest results when reheating, lightly spray both sides with cooking spray before using the air fryer or oven method.

Another great make-ahead breakfast option is my Baked Oatmeal Recipe.

Nutritional Facts

Per Serving (1 slice):

• Calories: 245
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Sodium: 310mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 34g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 12g
• Protein: 9g
• Vitamin A: 6% DV
• Calcium: 10% DV
• Iron: 12% DV

Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used. Toppings and syrup are not included in these calculations.

You might also enjoy my Healthy Waffle Recipe for a lighter option.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

While French toast is an indulgent breakfast treat, it does provide some nutritional value from its wholesome ingredients.

Eggs are nutritional powerhouses packed with high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. They provide all nine essential amino acids your body needs, plus choline for brain health and lutein for eye health.

Here’s what makes this recipe nutritious:

• Complete protein source: Eggs provide 6 grams of protein per serving, helping you feel full and energized throughout the morning
• Vitamin D and B vitamins: Support bone health, energy metabolism, and nervous system function
• Calcium from milk: Contributes to strong bones and teeth, with each serving providing about 10% of your daily calcium needs
• Complex carbohydrates: Whole grain bread options provide sustained energy and dietary fiber for digestive health
• Antioxidant spices: Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels
• Heart-healthy fats: Using minimal oil in the air fryer reduces saturated fat compared to traditional pan-fried French toast

For a protein-packed breakfast, try my Protein Waffle Recipe.

FAQs About Air Fryer French Toast

1. Can I use regular sandwich bread instead of thick-cut bread?

You can use regular sandwich bread, but the results won’t be quite as impressive. Thin bread tends to become crispy throughout rather than maintaining that desirable contrast of crispy exterior and custardy center. If using regular bread, reduce the soaking time to just 10 seconds per side and cook for only 5 to 6 minutes total to prevent it from drying out completely.

2. Why is my French toast soggy in the middle?

Soggy centers usually result from soaking the bread too long or not cooking it long enough. Make sure you’re only soaking each side for 15 to 20 seconds and shake off excess custard before air frying. Also ensure your air fryer is properly preheated to 370°F (188°C) and cook for the full 7 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. Can I make Air Fryer French Toast without eggs?

Yes, you can make a vegan version using a combination of ¾ cup (180 ml) plant-based milk, 2 tablespoons (16 g) cornstarch, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract. Whisk the cornstarch into the milk until smooth, then add the remaining ingredients. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

4. What’s the best temperature for air frying French toast?

370°F (188°C) is the sweet spot for Air Fryer French Toast. This temperature is hot enough to create a crispy, golden exterior without burning the outside before the inside cooks through. Some air fryers run hotter than others, so if you notice burning at this temperature, reduce it to 350°F (177°C) and add 1 to 2 minutes to the cooking time.

5. Can I cook frozen French toast directly in the air fryer?

Absolutely! You can cook frozen French toast without thawing first. Simply add 2 to 3 minutes to the total cooking time and check frequently during the last few minutes. The frozen French toast will need about 10 to 11 minutes total at 370°F (188°C), flipping halfway through.

Read Also: Creme Brulee French Toast Casserole Recipe

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer French Toast has completely changed my breakfast routine. What used to be a special weekend treat has become an easy weekday option that takes less time than waiting in line at a coffee shop.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity and consistency. Once you nail the basic technique, you can experiment with endless variations to keep breakfast exciting. I love making a big batch on Sunday, freezing individual slices, and reheating them throughout the week for quick breakfasts that taste homemade.

Give this Air Fryer French Toast Recipe a try and discover how easy it is to create restaurant-quality breakfast at home. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Drop a comment below with your favorite toppings or any creative variations you’ve tried.

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